Centre for disabled under investigation
A centre for disabled learners in KwaNonqaba is being investigated following claims made that all is not well under the current management.
The centre has been in operation since 2007.
This week, it came to light that the school board has taken decisive action. A spokesperson for the board, who has been involved with the centre since 2017, confirmed that the principal of the school has had a disciplinary hearing and was suspended in August this year.
A trained social worker was tasked to stand in, but left the school due to intimidation. She has subsequently laid a charge of assault at the Da Gamaskop Police following an incident recently in which she was allegedly accosted by staff members.
According to a spokesperson of the board, following a report compiled by a team of educational experts, further charges have been laid with the Da Gamaskop Police, concerning child abuse. Upon enquiry, Capt Wollie Fourie confirmed that charges of fraud and assault were also being investigated. The police's Family Violence, Child Abuse and Sexual Offences Unit are also investigating claims of child neglect at the centre.
The spokesperson of the school board told the Mossel Bay Advertiser that following the principal's suspension, he was invited to a meeting with the board on 23 October. According to the spokesperson, the principal and several of his supporters arrived at the school grounds after which the interaction between the parties became hostile. During the hostilities, the keys to the premises were allegedly forcefully taken by the principal, who has currently placed himself back in charge of the school.
"We are a bit at a loss and considering taking new steps and opening another case to remove the principal. We do not want the hostilities to continue, but merely want the learners to get the care and education they deserve."
The Advertiser contacted the principal, who said that a new board had been elected. He also said that he knew nothing of the charges as the police had not contacted him yet and therefore, did not want to comment on the allegations.